EAP - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?

The EAP is designed help university employees with personal or work-related problems by providing short-term counseling (up to 5 sessions). The EAP also conducts training and development programs as well as organizational consultation. A summary list of specific services provided by EAP is as follows:

Assessments

Counseling for individuals, couples and families

Crisis intervention

Organizational consultation

Training and development programs

Are employees required to use their vacation, medical or personal leave when meeting with a practitioner in the EAP?

EAP is a benefit provided to all employees at no-cost. Employees are not required to utilize any of their leave when meeting with a practitioner in the EAP.

What if I need more than five sessions?

EAP practitioners are trained in assessment. If it is determined that more than five sessions are needed to manage stressors, the practitioner will provide employees with a referral within the community. EAP practitioners attempt to ensure sure all referrals are covered by insurance, or if money is a concern, to help employees locate counseling services that are offered at a sliding fee or reduced rate.

How much does it cost?

There is no cost for EAP services. If a referral is necessary to a counselor in the community, the cost of covering that service is the responsibility of the employee.

If I talk to an EAP counselor is it confidential?

Yes. EAP services are confidential. All case records and information about services provided to employees by the EAP are maintained in the strictest confidence. Exceptions to confidentiality are as follows:

If the EAP is under court order or subpoena compelling disclosure; or

If the EAP practitioner has reason to believe that a client is a threat of harm to himself, or other persons; or

If the EAP practitioner has reason to believe that a child or vulnerable adult has been subject to abuse or neglect.

In cases of supervisory referral to EAP, the employee is asked to sign a release giving permission for EAP to confirm attendance. This release only authorizes the employee's supervisor to confirm that the employee scheduled an appointment with the EAP and whether or not they attended that appointment. All personal information that is shared within the conversation between the EAP practitioner and employee will remain confidential and is not released to the supervisor of the employee.

Who may use EAP services?

All university employees and their immediate family members can utilize counseling services offered by EAP. Employees are encouraged when personal problems at work or at home are interfering with their work performance to contact the EAP.